Business Awards

■ David C. Burks of Paladin Inc. has received his BPI Certification (building analyst and envelope specialist). Paladin provides solutions in commissioning, engineering design and technical services. Find out more at Paladinengineers.com.

■ The New Opportunity School for Women, located in Berea, has received an early Christmas gift this year. Jane Stephenson, the organization's founder, submitted the winning entry to AARP Create the Good national contest and won $15,000 for the school.

Stephenson's story was chosen from more than 1,800 volunteer stories submitted online from individuals across the country. Her story about the New Opportunity School for Women, a career and leadership development program for low-income women in the central Appalachian region, received the most online votes to become the grand prize winner.

The school provides a free, three-week program to teach women basic skills to continue their education or get a job, including computer, math, interview and leadership skills.

Never miss a local story.

Sign up today for a free 30 day free trial of unlimited digital access.

■ Scentsy has been named to Forbes' 2011 list of America's 100 Most Promising Companies. It was the largest company based on revenue and employees, with 2010 revenues of $381 million and an employee base of 750.

Scentsy employs more than 170 people in its Lexington distribution center.

Founded in 2004, Scentsy's flagship product is scented wickless candles heated in decorative ceramic warmers. Find out more at Scentsy.com.